RARE 1855 ANTIQUE Copper HAYSTACK Jug MEASURE BENHAM AND FROUD 1 Quart LONDON UK

Description

This antique copper 1 QUART Measure Jug also known as a Haystack Measures based on its Style Form.
It is scripted 1 Quart on front. On the inside of the rim is stamped in lead is a crown, the initials V R (Victorian Reign) and the number 39 (Region# for Surrey County, South East England). On the bottom of the jug is Makers Mark used by “BENHAM and FROUD” of London. (the mark of the orb and cross).
BENHAM and FROUD are successors to Copper-smith John Kepp who was a London Copper-smith since 1785. BENHAM and FROUD took over and operated the business from 1855 – 1924,
and this 1 Quart Jug
is one of their earliest pieces we estimate to be circa 1855 – 1860 based on technique, style, metal wear composition, and the
inscribed “
1 Quart
”
marking (which was done in the earlier years typically pre-1860 by Benham & Froud ). They eventually stamped their pieces in later years with a “1 QUART” stamp, rather than using the hand
scripted
method as manufacturing became more automated. Still. It is seldom to find any makers mark from the Copper-smith on these Early Copper Haystack jugs. Usually the only markings found are the leaded Assay Marks from where they were used locally from where they were purchased.
Condition: The shape of the jug we grade as very good+.
We believe it could use some professional polishing, but that is a personal choice, and will leave that decision up to the new owner. There are a multiple light natural character dents to be expected on early copper haystack measures. The copper is randomly worn with top layer erosion over the Century’s giving it a beautiful textured patina appearance.
BENHAM and FROUD were considered the finest copper-smiths in their day, and made their Haystack Measures are heavy, thick with multiple folded copper layers as opposed to the more common single layer copper measure jugs. You can feel the quality when making comparisons to other makers.
It has no holes. The dovetails are still tight after more than a century and did not leak when tested. See photos for actual images. Because this is an antique and the natural wear, patina & use condition adds character value to this item, this item is sold as is and as found.
Buyer to pay .95 for Shipping, handling & Insurance to ship within the Continental USA. Additional shipping costs for overseas International, will be further handled via Ebay's Global Shipping Program.